Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Primary Teaching) Course in Widnes. Classes run full-time, daytime at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. The course is designed for adults aged 21 and over who are preparing to apply to university, particularly those who have been out of education for some time. You'll study two Level 3 subjects chosen from English, Maths, History, Physics, and Biology, building the subject knowledge universities expect for primary teaching and related degrees such as Childhood Studies. The course takes one year.
Who this course is for
The course provides students the opportunity to achieve the essential subject knowledge required for progression to university in order to study a degree for primary/secondary teaching or other education related degree courses such as Childhood Studies. It is designed for adult students aged 21+, who may have been out of education for some time in preparation for higher education.
You will study two Level 3 subjects from a choice of English, Maths, History, Physics and Biology. The diploma also includes modules in study skills, academic writing and academic research to prepare you for your degree and for higher education.
Preparation for university: students are offered support and guidance on university applications. There are excellent links with local universities, who value the quality of the Access provision at Riverside College. Students receive in-depth guidance from subject tutors on essay writing and research skills, together with additional support if required. A successful personal tutor programme is in place to offer support to all students and monitor progress to help students succeed on the course.
Degree Progression and Career Opportunities include:
Primary or Secondary Education with QTS (Teaching), Early Years, English, History, Law, Journalism, Creative Writing, Education.
Entry requirements
Please enquire at the college website
What you will learn
You'll develop subject knowledge in two Level 3 subjects from English, Maths, History, Physics, and Biology.
You'll build the academic skills needed to study at degree level.
You'll learn how to research, structure arguments, and write at university standard.
You'll explore the knowledge base relevant to primary teaching and education-related degrees.
You'll develop study habits and independent learning skills suited to higher education.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, attending full-time during the day. Assessment is through a combination of assignments, written work, and coursework across your chosen subjects. The Access to HE Diploma is assessed through graded units, and your grades contribute to the overall profile universities use when considering your application.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Primary school teacher (via QTS-qualified degree route)
Teaching assistant supporting primary-age children
Early years practitioner in nursery or reception settings
Learning support assistant in primary schools
Childhood studies graduate roles in education or family services
Education welfare officer supporting children and families
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS: the direct degree route to becoming a qualified primary school teacher in England.
BA (Hons) Childhood Studies: a degree covering child development, education, and family policy, leading to roles across education and children's services.
BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education: focused on the early years sector, useful for those aiming at nursery leadership or OFSTED-registered settings.
The Access to HE Diploma (Primary Teaching) qualification is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for these degrees.
